Whether you are just beginning to daydream about your next trip or have set the dates and are in the throws of planning, we have a few tips for booking hotels that can help to create the travel experience you are looking for.

Do some research

What kind of trip are you planning? Do you want to be in the center of the action, or are you looking to find a secluded spot to tuck away? Either way, it is a good idea to do some research to make sure the hotel you are booking is close to your destination.

Make the call

Many of us now turn to internet travel sites when looking to book hotel reservations, and often websites like Expedia or Orbitz are promoted for their convenience and discounted rates. While this can be true, there are a few caveats to keep in mind. When compared to the rates offered by a hotel when called directly, it is common for online travel sites to have substantially higher prices. We recommend calling directly to the hotel your interested in to find out about potential discounts or rate flexibility. By speaking to one of the staff, you are forming a direct connection with someone who can take note of any special requests that often get lost or over-looked in online reservations and make the personalized adjustments that can make a good trip a great one.